Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga has opposed the proposed Ebola treatment facility in their neighboring Laikipia County, raising questions over concerns about public health risks and a lack of public consultation with the communities likely to be affected.
In a press release on May 30, 2029, Governor Kahiga said the residents of Nyeri County were concerned about the proposed construction of the facility, as the two counties are economically linked, which would increase the risk of disease spread.
Concern Over Public Health Risks
Kahiga noted that the Ebola virus is among the most lethal infections around the globe since it is not only highly contagious but also very difficult to control.
The governor cited existing trade, transport, and social connections between Nyeri and Laikipia counties, indicating that an outbreak would likely spread across the county boundary, especially along the Isiolo-Laikipia-Nyeri axis.
“Any public health risk in Laikipia is a direct concern to the leadership and people of Nyeri,” read part of the statement.
According to the governor, the release of the statement was triggered by the increasing public anxiety over their safety.
He also recognized that Ebola preparedness is an international affair but emphasized the need for transparency and stakeholder involvement in such a delicate the process. In his statement, Kahiga maintained that consultations should be conducted when establishing facilities that may pose risks to communities.
Also Read: Kenyan Ebola Facility Plan Takes Twist After Court Ruling
Laikipia County Stance on the Proposed Facility
Earlier on Friday, Leaders of Laikipia County voiced similar concerns and condemned the proposal, stating that it could trigger fear and expose residents to unnecessary health risks amid heightened regional concerns over the disease.
In a statement on Friday, May 29, 2026, leaders of the Laikipia County, including Senator John Kinyua, Governor Joshua Irungu, MP’s Mwangi Kiunjuri, Sarah Korere, and Wachira Karani, and Women Representative Jane Kagiri, stated that they will never support any such initiative from the national government or the international community to have the facility constructed within their region.
Senator Kinyua, in a statement, said that the government had not prioritized the safety of Kenyans before coming to such an agreement with the United States and warned against turning Laikipia County into what he described as “a dumping site for death.”
“We reject this proposal. Why can’t those exposed to be taken to their countries if Ebola is not a deadly disease? Are Kenyans and more so the people of Laikipia lesser human beings?” Kinyua said.
The senator further questioned why Kenya would consider hosting Ebola-related cases from foreign countries instead of strengthening border surveillance and restricting travel from other affected regions.
Also Read: Ebola Scare Disrupts Church Activities in Uganda as Meetings Are Suspended
Appeal for Transparency and Dialogue
Governor Kahiga has since appealed to the national government, through the Ministry of Health, to halt the project’s implementation until stakeholders are engaged.
In the statement on Saturday, Kahiga called on the government to halt the project until consultations are completed. In addition, the Nyeri Governor demanded the retrieval of technical, environmental, and safety impact assessment reports; and a brief on the objectives, financial considerations, and benefits associated with the project.
Governor Kahiga noted that trust plays an important role in the successful implementation of health interventions.
Follow our WhatsApp Channel and X Account for real-time news updates.
PHOTO | X
